Funding will help attract visitors and strengthen the local economy
Fergus – Ontario is investing $255,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support 4 festivals and events in Wellington-Halton Hills. This is part of a more than $20 million government investment to help municipalities and event organizers deliver high-quality programming and experiences for people of all ages.
“From Ontario’s charming small towns to its dazzling urban centres, festivals and events bring people together, create lasting memories and showcase the best of our communities,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As we work to protect Ontario, these homegrown experiences play a vital role in celebrating our shared identity, bolstering main street businesses and ensuring our province remains a place people are inspired to explore — and proud to call home.”
Joseph Racinsky, the MPP for Wellington-Halton Hills, announced today that the following local events are receiving funding support:
- Major League Show Jumping-$125,000
- The Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games-$55,000
- The Elora Festival-$55,000
- Eden Mills Writers’ Festival-$55,000
In total, Experience Ontario 2026 is supporting nearly festivals and events of all sizes across the province, strengthening tourism and supporting local economies while celebrating the people, places and traditions that make Ontario unique.
“I’m proud to be part of a government that supports these incredible events in our community.” Said Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Joseph Racinsky. “These events bring people together, and help make this the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”
“We are deeply grateful to Experience Ontario for this generous support, which strengthens our ability to present inspiring performances and broaden community engagement. This grant will allow the Elora Festival to elevate artistic programming, showcase exceptional Canadian and International talent, and enhance the overall festival experience for audiences and visitors alike. It will reinforce Elora’s role as a vibrant cultural destination, and we look forward to welcoming guests to share in extraordinary musical experiences.” -Mark Vuorinen, the Elora Festival Artistic Director.
“The Fergus Scottish Festival is thrilled to be the recipient of Experience Ontario funding in 2026. The support of the grant is invaluable in ensuring the Festival is able to maintain unique and engaging programming experiences for our guests as well as seamless event delivery, all while contributing to local tourism and promoting our community. This year we are hosting our 81st Fergus Scottish Festival and we are grateful to the Province of Ontario for supporting us to do so.” -Elizabeth Bender, Executive Director of the Fergus Scottish Festival.
QUICK FACTS
- Since 2018, the Experience Ontario program (formerly known as Reconnect Ontario and Celebrate Ontario) has supported more than 2,700 Ontario festivals and events.
- The government also supports festivals and events through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, which provides eligible organizations with funding for marketing and promotional costs.
- Tourism plays a critical role in the Ontario economy: in 2024, visitors to Ontario spent $33 billion and supported more than 300,000 jobs.
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Media Contacts
Office of Joseph Racinsky, MPP
519-787-5247
joseph.racinsky@pc.ola.org